3rd Annual Black Dog Block Party

Five years ago Lowertown St. Paul was a dead zone after 5 p.m. and on the weekends. Sure, the farmers' market would be packed during the wee hours of dawn, but otherwise residents remained holed-up or presumably spending their day somewhere else. Over the past couple of years the region has become more than just the last stop before the bus parking lot. The Bulldog, for example, is hopping most nights and features the best beer list of the three Bulldogs in town. And then there's the Black Dog, a Lowertown staple that has been a destination for years. Perhaps even more promising? This will mark the third year for the Black Dog Block Party. The streets will be closed off and filled with art, carnival activities, beer and wine, and food. To get you dancing in the streets, the Brass Messengers will perform their unique blend of Romanian, country, and Latin American-inspired tunes. French band Tarace Boulba, hip-hopper Maria Isa, drumming group El Arco Iris, Aviette, and others are slated to perform as well. For more info visit www.blackdogstpaul.com.
Sat., May 9, 1-7 p.m., 2009